Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Florida
Florida Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives you fast, concrete ways to get help in Florida—numbers to call, what to say, how to qualify, and what to do when you hit a wall. All sources are official state/federal agencies or established nonprofits, and every number or dollar figure is verified.
Quick help box (start here)
- Call or text the 988 Florida Lifeline for immediate emotional support: 988. You’ll reach a Florida-based counselor 24/7 who can connect you to local care. Learn how the 988 Florida Lifeline works. (988floridalifeline.com, myflfamilies.com)
- Ask for a Mobile Response Team (MRT) to come to your home/school/work during a crisis: dial 211 and request “Mobile Response Team.” DCF: Mobile Response Teams (MRT). (myflfamilies.com)
- Maternal mental health (pregnancy/postpartum): call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262 (English/Spanish; interpreters in 60 languages). HRSA Hotline info. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Postpartum Support International HelpLine for referrals (not a crisis line): 1‑800‑944‑4773 (call) or text “Help” to 800‑944‑4773 (English) / 971‑203‑7773 (Español). PSI HelpLine. (postpartum.net)
- Find services by your Florida county (clinics, MRT numbers, teams): use DCF’s locator. Find Local Services by County. (prod.myflfamilies.com)
- Florida Medicaid member? Call the SMMC Help Line to choose/switch plans or get help accessing behavioral health care: 1‑877‑711‑3662 (TDD 1‑866‑467‑4970). AHCA: Managed Care Recipients. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- General Medicaid coverage/complaints: 1‑877‑254‑1055 (TDD 1‑866‑467‑4970). AHCA Recipient Resources. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- Florida 211 statewide: dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211 for resource navigation (food, housing, mental health, more). FL 211. (fl211.org)
Why this guide is different (we filled real gaps)
After reviewing the top search results for “Florida Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers,” we noticed common gaps: few pages show the current 2025 income limits and premiums, very few explain Florida’s Mobile Response Teams by county, almost none include victim‑compensation counseling dollar caps, and most don’t give concrete timelines or plan‑B workarounds. Below you get verified numbers, direct links, and step‑by‑step instructions with Florida‑specific contacts and dollars.
Crisis and urgent support you can use today
Start with the fastest option that fits your situation.
1) Talk to a counselor now (free, 24/7)
- Dial or text 988. You’ll reach a trained counselor in Florida who can de‑escalate, safety‑plan, and connect you to local care. Ask for a referral to a Mobile Response Team if you need in‑person help. 988 Florida Lifeline. (myflfamilies.com)
What to expect: Most callers get help over the phone without needing police or hospital involvement (the Florida program reports the majority of contacts resolve by phone). If you need in‑person help, the counselor can coordinate an MRT visit. How 988 works in Florida. (988floridalifeline.com)
Reality check: A 2025 analysis found Florida’s per‑capita use of 988 is among the lowest in the U.S.—don’t let that stop you from calling; the service is there for you. (axios.com)
- If the crisis involves a recent disaster (hurricane, fire): call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline 1‑800‑985‑5990 (24/7). (myflfamilies.com)
- If you need language access or ASL: 988 offers Spanish and ASL options via video; ask the counselor. (wusf.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 911 only if there is an immediate risk of harm that cannot be reduced by 988. If you call 911, request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)–trained officer when available. For ongoing support, call 211 to find local counseling with sliding fees. (fl211.org)
2) Mobile Response Teams (they come to you)
- How to reach: Dial 211 and ask for the “Mobile Response Team.” They serve youth and young adults and, in many areas, adults too. Teams de‑escalate, safety‑plan, and connect you to care on the spot. DCF: Mobile Response Teams. (myflfamilies.com)
- Find your county’s MRT number: use the state’s county lookup tool. Find Local Services by County. (prod.myflfamilies.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 988 to request a referral, or go to the nearest Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU). Your 988 counselor can direct you to a CSU or a designated Baker Act receiving facility. DCF: Baker Act resources and facilities. (myflfamilies.com)
3) Baker Act basics (involuntary exam)
Florida’s Baker Act is the state’s emergency pathway for people who may be a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness. Learn the criteria and your rights, and see the list of designated facilities. Start at DCF’s Baker Act pages: What is the Baker Act?, Resources for Individuals & Families. (myflfamilies.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you believe rights were violated, contact Disability Rights Florida (800‑342‑0823) for free legal advocacy. Disability Rights Florida – Contact. (disabilityrightsflorida.org)
Hotlines and emergency contacts (print‑friendly)
| Service | What it does | Phone/Text |
|---|---|---|
| 988 Florida Lifeline | 24/7 crisis counseling, linkage to MRT/CSU | 988 (call/text) (myflfamilies.com) |
| Florida 211 | 24/7 resource navigation (housing, food, mental health) | 211, text ZIP to 898211 (fl211.org) |
| Maternal Mental Health Hotline (HRSA) | 24/7 support for pregnant/postpartum | 1‑833‑852‑6262 (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Postpartum Support International | Referrals and support (not crisis) | 1‑800‑944‑4773; text 800‑944‑4773 (EN) / 971‑203‑7773 (ES) (postpartum.net) |
| Disaster Distress Helpline | Crisis counseling after disasters | 1‑800‑985‑5990 (call/text) (myflfamilies.com) |
| Veteran Crisis Line | For veterans and families | 988, then press 1 (department.va.gov) |
Ongoing therapy and psychiatry through your coverage
Start with the coverage you or your child can use now. The fastest wins usually come from (A) Medicaid for you if you are pregnant/postpartum, (B) Florida KidCare for your kids, and (C) Federally Qualified Health Centers (sliding‑fee).
A) Florida Medicaid for moms (pregnancy and 12 months postpartum)
Most single moms who are pregnant qualify for Medicaid if income is within the “Pregnant Women” limits below. Once eligible, you stay covered throughout pregnancy and for a full 12‑month postpartum period. DCF: Medicaid – Pregnant Women. (myflfamilies.com)
How to apply fast:
- Apply online via ACCESS Florida (create a MyACCESS account) or get help at a local DCF/Community Partner site. Processing is typically within 45 days once all information is received; disability‑based cases take up to 90 days. DCF FAQ and rule, [F.A.C. 65A‑1.205]. (myflfamilies.com, law.cornell.edu)
- After approval, choose a Medicaid health plan or ask Choice Counseling to assign one: 1‑877‑711‑3662 (TDD 1‑866‑467‑4970). Ask for “behavioral health” and “care coordination” to speed up appointments. AHCA – Managed Care Recipients. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- Telehealth is covered by Florida Medicaid for behavioral health. If getting to a clinic is hard, ask your plan or clinic about a video/phone visit. AHCA: Medicaid Telehealth. (ahca.myflorida.com)
What’s covered: evaluation, therapy (individual/family/group), psychiatry and medications, community behavioral health services, and more—delivered through your plan’s network. AHCA: Community Behavioral Health Services. (ahca.myflorida.com)
Most important action item: if you’re pregnant/postpartum and not yet insured, apply right now and call Choice Counseling the next business day to get into a plan and request a mental health appointment.
Florida Medicaid monthly income limits (effective April 2025)
These are the DCF‑published maximums for the Pregnant Women coverage group. If your household’s countable monthly income is at or below these, apply. DCF: Determine Your Income Limit – Effective April 2025. (myflfamilies.com)
| Family size | Pregnant Women monthly income limit (max) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,588 |
| 2 | $3,456 |
| 3 | $4,355 |
| 4 | $5,252 |
| 5 | $6,151 |
Required documents (upload in MyACCESS to avoid delays):
- Proof of identity and Florida residency (ID, lease, bill).
- Proof of pregnancy (doctor’s note or prenatal record), and Social Security numbers if available.
- Income proof for the last 30 days (pay stubs, child support, benefits letters).
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Medicaid Helpline 1‑877‑254‑1055 if your plan can’t get you a timely appointment or you need to switch plans. File a complaint if necessary. AHCA Recipient Resources and complaints. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- While your case is pending, you can still use 988, 211, and Mobile Response Teams.
B) Florida KidCare (mental health care for your children)
If your kids are uninsured (birth through age 18), Florida KidCare offers mental/behavioral health services. Many families pay 15–15–20 per month total for all eligible children; higher‑income families can buy “full‑pay.” Florida KidCare – Benefits & Costs. (floridakidcare.org)
2025 income guidelines (annual; effective April 2025)
Florida KidCare 2025 General Annual Income Guidelines (PDF) show which range you’re in and whether your payment is 0,∗∗0, **15**, $20, or full‑pay. (floridakidcare.org)
| Family size | Medicaid for Children (up to 133% FPL) | MediKids/Healthy Kids/CMS Plan $15 (133.01–158% FPL) | $20 (158.01–200% FPL) | Full‑pay (≥200.01% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≤ $20,815 | 20,815.01–20,815.01–24,727 | 24,727.01–24,727.01–31,300 | $31,300.01+ |
| 2 | ≤ $28,130 | 28,130.01–28,130.01–33,417 | 33,417.01–33,417.01–42,300 | $42,300.01+ |
| 3 | ≤ $35,445 | 35,445.01–35,445.01–42,107 | 42,107.01–42,107.01–53,300 | $53,300.01+ |
| 4 | ≤ $42,760 | 42,760.01–42,760.01–50,797 | 50,797.01–50,797.01–64,300 | $64,300.01+ |
| 5 | ≤ $50,075 | 50,075.01–50,075.01–59,487 | 59,487.01–59,487.01–75,300 | $75,300.01+ |
How to apply and how long it takes: Apply year‑round; coverage starts the 1st of the month after eligibility is confirmed and (if required) your first premium is paid. Upload requested documents quickly; KidCare says uploaded documents are processed in about 7 business days. KidCare FAQs (document processing). (healthykids.org)
Tips that speed up care:
- When you pick a plan, call member services the same day and ask for “behavioral health” and the quickest therapy intake (telehealth if needed).
- If your child is in crisis, still call 988 or 211—you don’t need to wait for plan activation.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call Florida KidCare customer service 1‑888‑540‑5437 for application issues or to change plans. For urgent mental health needs, use 988/211 now while the application finishes. (floridakidcare.org)
C) No insurance? Use low‑cost clinics that take sliding fees
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) across Florida provide integrated primary care and behavioral health, with fees based on income. Find a center by ZIP code.
Many centers can see you by telehealth, offer same‑week counseling starts, and help with Medicaid/KidCare applications.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use 211 to find private nonprofits with sliding‑fee counseling near you, like Jewish Family Services (multiple regions statewide). Examples: JCS South Florida (sliding fee) (305‑576‑6550), Tampa JFS counseling (813‑960‑1848). (jcsfl.org, tjfs.org)
If you were the victim of a crime: Florida will help pay for counseling
Florida’s Attorney General runs the Victim Compensation program. For crimes on/after Jan 6, 2022, these are the mental‑health counseling caps (benefits usually reimburse providers at up to 50% of billed rates, subject to program rules). See full “Schedule of Benefits.” (myfloridalegal.com)
| Benefit type | Max amount (at up to 50% pay rate) | Time limit from date of crime |
|---|---|---|
| Injured adult victim – mental health counseling | $5,000 | Within 1 year |
| Injured minor (to age 18) – mental health | $10,000 | N/A |
| Inpatient crisis stabilization | $10,000 | Within 7 days |
| Minor witness – mental health | $5,000 | Within 1 year |
| Grief counseling for surviving family (combined cap) | 10,000∗∗(max∗∗10,000** (max **2,500 per adult applicant) | Within 1 year |
| Funeral/burial | $7,500 | — |
How to use it:
- Call the Bureau of Victim Compensation at 1‑800‑226‑6667 for help filing, or download forms and apply. AG: Bureau of Victim Compensation. (myfloridalegal.com)
Plan B: If you don’t have a police report yet or deadlines are tight, talk to a local victim advocate via 211 for help getting a same‑day appointment and completing paperwork.
Postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis: Florida‑specific help
Most important action item: If you’re pregnant or within a year after birth and feel persistently down, anxious, panicky, or are having scary thoughts, call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262 or 988 right now. Both are 24/7 and confidential. HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline FAQ, 988 Florida Lifeline. (mchb.hrsa.gov, 988floridalifeline.com)
Florida‑based resources you can use today:
- Postpartum Support International – Florida Chapter: local support listings and volunteers. PSI Florida Chapter. Helpline 1‑800‑944‑4773 (EN/ES). (psichapters.com)
- Florida BH IMPACT (FL Dept. of Health + FSU College of Medicine): free, Florida‑specific directory of perinatal behavioral health providers and supports. Florida Moms Health Directory. (flmomshealth.org)
- Florida Prenatal Screen and Healthy Start: perinatal depression screening and referral through OB/pediatric visits. Ask your provider for a screening or call the Family Health Line 1‑800‑451‑2229. Florida DOH – Prenatal Screen. (floridahealth.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Contact your Medicaid/KidCare plan to request behavioral health care coordination and the first available therapy visit (ask for telehealth if needed). Use 988/211 between appointments.
Real‑world example: A Jacksonville mom 8 weeks postpartum used the HRSA hotline to find a PSI‑trained therapist who offered telehealth evenings; combining Medicaid telehealth (no ride/childcare needed) made weekly therapy doable while on leave. (Example scenario based on how these programs work together in Florida.)
Insurance problems or pre‑authorizations blocking care?
If your commercial plan is dragging its feet or denying mental‑health benefits, get help from Florida’s Division of Consumer Services:
- Call the Florida Insurance Consumer Helpline 1‑877‑693‑5236 or use the online complaint/mediation portal. Behavioral Health Services – Consumer Protections. (myfloridacfo.com, apps.fldfs.com)
You can also call AHCA’s Consumer Complaint Call Center at 1‑888‑419‑3456 for facility complaints. AHCA call center contacts. (ahca.myflorida.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your plan for the internal appeal and external review process in writing; Florida and federal law require those options. Use the state helpline above for one‑on‑one assistance. (myfloridacfo.com)
Florida’s publicly funded mental health system: who runs what (by region)
Florida contracts with seven regional Managing Entities (MEs). They don’t treat directly; they organize local networks and can guide you to programs in your county. Use the state’s county lookup or view the ME list. (myflfamilies.com, prod.myflfamilies.com)
| Managing Entity | Counties served (summary) |
|---|---|
| NWF Health Network | Panhandle: Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Leon, etc. |
| LSF Health Systems | Northeast/North Central: Duval, Alachua, St. Johns, Volusia, etc. |
| Central Florida Cares Health System | Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard |
| Central Florida Behavioral Health Network | Tampa Bay/Suncoast: Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota, etc. |
| Broward Behavioral Health Coalition | Broward |
| Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network | Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Indian River |
| Thriving Mind South Florida | Miami‑Dade, Monroe |
How to use this: Visit the Find Local Services by County page, pick your county, and call the number listed for “Mobile Response Team,” “FACT,” “CAT,” or other programs shown. (prod.myflfamilies.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 211 and ask the specialist to connect you with your county’s Managing Entity contact for mental health.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Fastest step | Link/number |
|---|---|---|
| Talk to someone now | Call/text 988 | 988 Florida Lifeline (myflfamilies.com) |
| In‑person crisis help | Dial 211, ask for “Mobile Response Team” | DCF: MRT (myflfamilies.com) |
| Pregnant/postpartum support | 1‑833‑852‑6262 | Maternal Mental Health Hotline (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Medicaid plan help | 1‑877‑711‑3662 | AHCA Managed Care (ahca.myflorida.com) |
| Find county programs | DCF county lookup | Find local services by county (prod.myflfamilies.com) |
| Kids’ coverage | Florida KidCare | KidCare Apply (floridakidcare.org) |
| Sliding‑fee clinics | Find an FQHC | Find a Health Center (fachc.org) |
| Crime victim counseling $$ | Apply for benefits | Victim Compensation – AG (myfloridalegal.com) |
Application checklist (save time and avoid re‑work)
- Photo ID and proof of Florida residency (bill, lease).
- Proof of pregnancy (if applying as pregnant), or your child’s birth certificate if applying for KidCare.
- Social Security numbers (if available).
- Income for last 30 days (pay stubs, child support, award letters).
- If applying for crime‑victim counseling benefits: police report/case number, provider info, and receipts if you already paid for services.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for an opening at a single clinic. Use telehealth through your Medicaid plan or an FQHC to start sooner. (ahca.myflorida.com, fachc.org)
- Missing plan calls or letters. Add voicemail space, enable MyACCESS/MyAccount notifications, and check spam folders.
- Not asking for “behavioral health care coordination.” Every Medicaid plan has it—use it to get faster appointments. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- Forgetting kids’ coverage while you wait. Apply to Florida KidCare so your child can start therapy even if your adult application is pending. (floridakidcare.org)
- Skipping victim benefits. If mental health costs are from a crime, the state may reimburse up to 5,000–5,000–10,000 depending on the situation. Apply. (myfloridalegal.com)
Diverse communities: targeted help and language access
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 offers LGBTQ+ specialized support; many FQHCs list affirming counselors. Ask your plan for an LGBTQ+‑affirming provider. 211 can filter by identity‑inclusive services. (fl211.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Disability Rights Florida provides free legal advocacy and resources (800‑342‑0823). DRF Mental Health Resources. (disabilityrightsflorida.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Women Veterans Call Center 1‑855‑VA‑WOMEN (1‑855‑829‑6636). VISN‑8 serves all Florida VA medical centers; mental health and maternity coordination are available. VA VISN‑8. (department.va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms (eligible for services): 988 and 211 provide interpreters; the Maternal Mental Health Hotline has interpreters in 60+ languages. HRSA Hotline FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Tribal citizens: StrongHearts Native Helpline offers culturally appropriate support (and can connect you to local services): 1‑844‑7NATIVE (1‑844‑762‑8483). For state services, use the DCF county locator and ask your MRT/ME about tribal partnerships. (prod.myflfamilies.com)
- Rural moms or those without transport: request telehealth visits through your Medicaid plan or FQHC; many after‑hours/evening options exist. AHCA Medicaid Telehealth. (ahca.myflorida.com)
- Single fathers: All services above apply. KidCare covers kids regardless of which parent applies. Florida KidCare. (floridakidcare.org)
- Language access: 988 (Spanish; ASL), Maternal Hotline (English/Spanish + interpreters), 211 (multi‑lingual), Medicaid telehealth with interpreter services—ask when scheduling. (988floridalifeline.com, wusf.org, fl211.org)
Timelines you can count on
- Medicaid eligibility decisions are made within 45 days once all information is received (up to 90 days if disability‑based). DCF FAQ; F.A.C. 65A‑1.205. (myflfamilies.com, law.cornell.edu)
- Florida KidCare document uploads are processed in about 7 business days; coverage begins the 1st of the month after approval and first premium (if any). KidCare Document FAQ. (healthykids.org)
- 988 and MRT are same‑day crisis services. 988 Florida Lifeline; DCF MRT, (https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/samh/mobile-response-teams). (988floridalifeline.com, myflfamilies.com)
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Waitlists happen. Ask for telehealth and for your plan’s “care coordination.” Ask to be added to cancellation lists. If symptoms worsen, use 988 or 211—you do not need to wait.
- Paperwork delays are the most common reason for stalled applications. Upload clear photos/PDFs to MyACCESS/KidCare, and check your portal every 48–72 hours for requests.
- If a hospital suggests a Baker Act evaluation and you are unsure about rights, call Disability Rights Florida (800‑342‑0823) for guidance and read DCF’s Baker Act resources. (myflfamilies.com, disabilityrightsflorida.org)
Realistic pathways by situation
- “I need to talk to someone tonight.” Call 988. If you want in‑person help, ask 988 to connect you to an MRT for your county. (myflfamilies.com)
- “I’m pregnant and uninsured.” Apply for Medicaid now (pregnant‑women category), then call 1‑877‑711‑3662 to pick a plan and request a therapy intake via telehealth. (myflfamilies.com, ahca.myflorida.com)
- “My teen needs therapy now.” Apply for KidCare if uninsured; in the meantime use 211 for a same‑week intake at a sliding‑fee clinic; call 988 for urgent concerns. (floridakidcare.org, fachc.org)
- “I was assaulted and can’t afford counseling.” Call the AG’s Victim Compensation program 1‑800‑226‑6667 and apply for counseling benefits (up to 5,000–5,000–10,000 depending on your case). (myfloridalegal.com)
Tables you may want to screenshot
Table: Florida Medicaid (Pregnant Women) monthly income limits (effective April 2025)
| Family size | Max monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,588 |
| 2 | $3,456 |
| 3 | $4,355 |
| 4 | $5,252 |
| 5 | $6,151 |
Source: DCF – Determining Your Income Limit (April 2025). (myflfamilies.com)
Table: Florida KidCare 2025 income ranges and typical monthly costs
| Family size | $0 (Medicaid kids) | $15 (CHIP tier 1) | $20 (CHIP tier 2) | Full‑pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≤ $20,815 | 20,815.01–20,815.01–24,727 | 24,727.01–24,727.01–31,300 | $31,300.01+ |
| 2 | ≤ $28,130 | 28,130.01–28,130.01–33,417 | 33,417.01–33,417.01–42,300 | $42,300.01+ |
| 3 | ≤ $35,445 | 35,445.01–35,445.01–42,107 | 42,107.01–42,107.01–53,300 | $53,300.01+ |
| 4 | ≤ $42,760 | 42,760.01–42,760.01–50,797 | 50,797.01–50,797.01–64,300 | $64,300.01+ |
| 5 | ≤ $50,075 | 50,075.01–50,075.01–59,487 | 59,487.01–59,487.01–75,300 | $75,300.01+ |
Source: Florida KidCare 2025 General Annual Income Guidelines (PDF). (floridakidcare.org)
Table: Crime Victim Compensation (mental health) – key benefit caps
| Benefit | Max | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult victim counseling | $5,000 | Up to 50% of billed rate; within 1 year of crime |
| Minor victim (to 18) counseling | $10,000 | — |
| Inpatient crisis stabilization | $10,000 | Within 7 days of crime |
| Minor witness counseling | $5,000 | Within 1 year |
| Grief counseling (family) | $10,000 total | Max $2,500 per adult |
Source: AG Schedule of Benefits (effective Jan 6, 2022; doc updated 2025). (myfloridalegal.com)
Table: Managing Entities (regional systems) – where they operate
| Managing Entity | Example counties |
|---|---|
| NWF Health Network | Escambia, Okaloosa, Leon, Bay, Walton… |
| LSF Health Systems | Duval, St. Johns, Volusia, Alachua… |
| Central Florida Cares | Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard |
| CFBHN (Suncoast) | Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota… |
| Broward BHC | Broward |
| SEFBHN | Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Indian River |
| Thriving Mind | Miami‑Dade, Monroe |
Source: DCF – Managing Entities. Use the county lookup for phone numbers. (myflfamilies.com)
Table: Florida mental health contacts you’ll use most
| Purpose | Contact |
|---|---|
| 988 Florida Lifeline | 988 (call/text) – More info (988floridalifeline.com) |
| Mobile Response Teams | Dial 211 – Find county contact (prod.myflfamilies.com) |
| Medicaid Choice Counseling | 1‑877‑711‑3662 (TDD 1‑866‑467‑4970) – AHCA Managed Care (ahca.myflorida.com) |
| Medicaid Helpline/Complaints | 1‑877‑254‑1055 – Recipient Resources (ahca.myflorida.com) |
| Florida KidCare (kids) | 1‑888‑540‑5437 – KidCare (floridakidcare.org) |
| Florida 211 | 211 / text ZIP to 898211 – FL 211 (fl211.org) |
| Victim Compensation | 1‑800‑226‑6667 – AG: Victim Compensation (myfloridalegal.com) |
10 Florida‑specific FAQs
- Does Florida Medicaid cover therapy and psychiatry by telehealth?
Yes. Florida Medicaid allows behavioral health services via phone/video; call your plan or clinic to set it up. (ahca.myflorida.com) - How fast will Medicaid decide on my application?
Within 45 days after you’ve submitted all requested info (90 days if disability‑based). (myflfamilies.com, law.cornell.edu) - I’m pregnant but not a U.S. citizen. Can I still get help?
DCF notes Emergency Medical Assistance for Non‑Citizens for certain services; for mental health supports, call 211/988, use sliding‑fee clinics, and Healthy Start/Family Health Line for referrals. (myflfamilies.com, floridahealth.gov) - If I call 988, will police automatically be sent?
No. Most calls are resolved by phone; in‑person help happens only when needed and is often handled by Mobile Response Teams. (988floridalifeline.com) - What if my plan can’t find a therapist who takes kids?
Call your plan and ask for behavioral health “care coordination” and the next available intake, including telehealth. If still stuck, call the Medicaid Helpline 1‑877‑254‑1055 to file a complaint. (ahca.myflorida.com) - How much will KidCare cost me each month?
Many families pay 15∗∗or∗∗15** or **20 total per month for all enrolled kids; higher incomes can buy full‑pay. See 2025 income tiers in the table above. (floridakidcare.org) - Where can I see exactly who serves my county?
Use DCF’s Find Local Services by County page to get county‑specific MRT and program contacts. (prod.myflfamilies.com) - I’m a veteran. Is there a women‑specific line?
Yes. Women Veterans Call Center 1‑855‑VA‑WOMEN. VISN‑8 manages Florida VA services and can connect you locally. (department.va.gov) - Who helps if my private insurance denies mental health coverage?
Call the Florida Insurance Consumer Helpline 1‑877‑693‑5236 to start an appeal/complaint or mediation. (myfloridacfo.com) - Are there low‑cost clinics if I cannot get insurance?
Yes—use the FQHC finder to locate a sliding‑fee clinic with behavioral health near you. (fachc.org)
What to do when you hit a waitlist
- Ask for the plan’s “care coordination” to locate faster openings, even with a different in‑network clinic.
- Request telehealth visits (often faster to schedule).
- Use 988/211 and, if needed, your county’s MRT for support while waiting.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Florida Department of Children and Families, Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, Florida Department of Health, USDA/HHS, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar amounts, phone numbers, and links can change without notice. Always verify with the relevant agency before you act.
- This guide is for general information only. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice. For emergencies, call 911. For crisis support, call 988.
- We use secure processes to protect this website. Do not share sensitive personal/health information in public comments or forms. Use official agency portals (MyACCESS, KidCare, VA, etc.) to upload documents securely.
Sources noted inline. Key references include:
• 988 Florida Lifeline (DCF oversight and how it works). (myflfamilies.com, 988floridalifeline.com)
• Mobile Response Teams (DCF program page and county lookup). (myflfamilies.com, prod.myflfamilies.com)
• Medicaid pregnancy/postpartum policy and income limits (April 2025). (myflfamilies.com, myflfamilies.com)
• Medicaid timelines (DCF FAQ; F.A.C. 65A‑1.205). (myflfamilies.com, law.cornell.edu)
• AHCA managed care contacts and telehealth policy. (ahca.myflorida.com)
• Florida KidCare 2025 income guidance and document processing. (floridakidcare.org, healthykids.org)
• Crime Victim Compensation (Schedule of Benefits PDF; program contact). (myfloridalegal.com)
• Florida 211 (statewide information). (fl211.org)
• Prenatal/Healthy Start depression screening resources (DOH). (floridahealth.gov)
• Veteran resources (VISN‑8). (department.va.gov)
If you need a personalized path based on your city and situation, reply with your county and whether you (or your child) have Medicaid/KidCare or private insurance, and we’ll map your fastest next three steps.
🏛️More Florida 2 Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Florida 2
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
